Division/Unit: Appeals Division
Position Title: Appeals Paralegal
Civil Service Title: Community Associate
Salary Range: $52,110 - $52,110
Job Description:
The New York County District Attorney's Office anticipates openings beginning in the late spring and summer of 2026 for Paralegals in its Appeals Division. The Appeals Division provides New York’s appellate and federal courts with in-depth written and oral analyses of legal and factual issues, arising from a wide range of criminal prosecutions, to ensure that properly obtained convictions are upheld and that no defect in the trial-level proceedings unduly affects either the public or the accused. Paralegals are responsible for providing a full range of administrative and litigation support to the attorneys in the Appeals Division.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Regularly write elementary legal briefs with a designated ADA.
- Assist ADAs with proofreading, cite checking, and locating files and documents.
- Maintain and update the Division’s digital case tracking system.
- Perform institutional assignments related to motions practice, exhibits coordination, etc.
- Communicate with defense attorneys and various courts regarding status of appeals.
- Work closely with the Records Department to locate sensitive case materials.
- Perform related administrative and clerical tasks as assigned.
In addition to the Minimum Qualification Requirements, candidates must possess the following:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college required by start date.
Preferred Requirements/Skills:
- Ability to interact and communicate (orally and in writing) with all levels of staff, court representatives, and law enforcement representatives.
- Excellent organizational and creative problem-solving skills.
- Detail-oriented with the ability to follow directions and apply proper policies, procedures, and guidelines.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access).
- Ability to learn, update, and edit existing proprietary applications, and quickly learn and use various computer systems.
- Ability to work independently with frequent interruptions, manage deadlines, and adapt to changes in workflow.
- Strong attention to detail and high concern for data accuracy.
How to Apply:
- Submit a Cover Letter, Resume, 5 – 7-page Writing Sample, 3 Professional References, and Transcript.
Hours/Shifts:
- Monday – Friday, from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Additional Information:
- Current office employees: To be eligible for a transfer or promotion, staff must have already served at least one (1) year in their current unit/bureau/department and be in good standing. In addition, must meet the minimum and additional qualifications of the position.
- Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.
Minimum Qualification Requirements:
- High school graduation or equivalent and three years of experience in community work or community-centered activities in an area related to duties described above; or
- Education and/or experience equivalent to "1" above.
Public Svc Loan Forgiveness:
- As a prospective employee of the City of New York, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs and state repayment assistance programs. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website at https://studentaid.gov/pslf/ .
Residency Requirement:
- City Residency is not required for this position.
The New York County District Attorney’s Office is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
Same Posting Description for Internal and External Candidates
The New York County District Attorney’s Office serves and protects the People of New York through the fair administration of justice, without fear or favor. The Office’s Professional Staff perform a variety of key functions, including supporting the Trial Division, Investigation Division, Special Victims Division, Pathways to Public Safety Division, and Appeals Division, which handles all the Office’s matters in state and federal appellate courts.
Professional Staff members perform a variety of key functions for the Office, including supporting the five Divisions, as well as other prosecution support and office functions. Our Professional Staff receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, as well as unparalleled opportunities for professional development.
The New York County District Attorney’s Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and culturally responsive workforce. Given the diverse nature of our community, the ability to work with people of different backgrounds is critical. The Office seeks to have a staff that reflects the diversity of the community that we serve. To that end, all applicants will be considered without regard to actual or perceived race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, age, prior record of arrest; or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.